Peking University Guanghua School of Management proudly commemorates the successful Degree Conferral Ceremony held on July 3, 2023, for the Future Leaders International Undergraduate Program Class of 2023. The ceremony marked a momentous occasion as 45 graduates representing 18 countries and regions celebrated their remarkable achievements and honored their journey towards becoming future leaders. Faculty members, esteemed guests, and family members from around the world were present to celebrate this significant milestone.
Liu Qiao, Dean of Guanghua School of Management, took the stage and delivered an inspiring opening speech that resonated with the graduates and attendees. Dean Liu commended the graduating class for their exceptional resilience, acknowledging the challenges they faced, including the impact of the global pandemic. In his address, Dean Liu shared valuable insights with the graduates, urging them to adopt a long-term perspective in their decision-making. He encouraged them to choose a lower discount rate, signifying patience and careful consideration for the future. Dean Liu Qiao emphasized that being wise, rather than solely intelligent, is crucial in addressing the world's most important questions and challenges. He quoted Charlie Munger, stating that the position of wisdom often involves surrounding oneself with wise individuals.
With a bittersweet farewell to Guanghua, the graduates eagerly embark on their next ventures. Some will continue their academic pursuits at prestigious institutions such as the University of Oxford, London Business School, the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Hong Kong, Peking University, and Tsinghua University. Others will embark on professional journeys, joining renowned multinational companies such as JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, Boston Consulting Group, and PricewaterhouseCoopers. The Future Leaders Program takes immense pride in the achievements of its graduates and is confident in their ability to make a lasting impact as they assume their roles as future leaders.
The highlight of the ceremony was the Degree Conferral, where the graduates officially received their well-earned degrees. Dean LIU Qiao performed the tassel turn, symbolizing the transition from student to graduate, while Professor Shen Qiaowei conducted the roll call of the graduates, acknowledging each individual's accomplishment.
Lucas Hensel, Professor of Economics, representing the faculty, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the graduates and lauded their unwavering dedication and inquisitiveness in overcoming challenges. Professor Hensel expressed his utmost confidence in the graduates' potential to become influential leaders who will make a positive difference in the world.
Mo Shujun, Assistant Dean and Director of the Office of Global Affairs, representing the administrative team, expressed sincere appreciation for the graduates' commendable efforts and the invaluable support extended by Guanghua. Emphasizing the significance of a long-term vision, she underscored the pivotal role of the program in shaping the future of the graduates. Miss Mo warmly welcomed the graduates into the Guanghua alumni community, encouraging them to maintain strong connections with their alma mater and fellow alumni.
As a student representative, Frank, Yang Zehao spoke on behalf of the graduating cohort. Yang highlighted the bond among classmates from various countries. They shared more than just academic success; their experiences fostered expanded thinking and valuable friendships. Yang expressed gratitude to professors and the program team and believed they would carry the spirit of "light shining from thoughts" into their future endeavors, creating a brighter future together.
The ceremony also included the presentation of student awards to recognize outstanding academic performance, community engagement, and overall contributions to the program. The outstanding graduates and those who made significant contributions were honored for their exceptional achievements.
The event concluded with an open mic session, where graduates had the opportunity to share their thoughts and express their appreciation. The heartfelt speeches highlighted the bonds formed within the program and the gratitude for the transformative experiences shared.
With a bittersweet farewell to Guanghua, the graduates eagerly embark on their next ventures. Some will continue their academic pursuits at prestigious institutions such as the University of Oxford, London Business School, the University of Pennsylvania, the University of Hong Kong, Peking University, and Tsinghua University. Others will embark on professional journeys, joining renowned multinational companies such as JPMorgan, Goldman Sachs, Boston Consulting Group, and PricewaterhouseCoopers. The Future Leaders Program takes immense pride in the achievements of its graduates and is confident in their ability to make a lasting impact as they assume their roles as future leaders.
